The disease can be acquired through direct contact with the discharges from respiratory mucus membranes, like when infected individuals sneeze, cough, or have colds. The bacteria causing the disease may also indirectly contact through droplets and articles freshly soiled with the mucus discharges of the infected individual.
"Our monitoring of the disease is sustained as with early detection of symptoms, this can also be treated, he added, stressing the importance of vaccines, proper hygiene, and cough etiquette like covering a mouth when coughing or coughing into your elbow to prevent the spread of the disease.
The health official also noted that a booster dose for babies who have completed the first three pertussis shots within 12 to 18 months as well as between 4 to 6 years old and every 10 years thereafter as the vaccines also gradually wean off through the years.
The Department of Health is expecting about 3 million more 'pentavalent' vaccine doses to arrive at the soonest possible time. These pentavalent vaccines protect not only against Pertussis, but also against Diphtheria, Tetanus, Hepatitis B, and Hemophilus influenza type B.
The Regional Epidemiology and Surveillance Units (RESUs) at the DOH Centers for Health Development are also in touch with local government units to guide local health authorities in responding to health concerns.
It also advises the public to carry on with daily activities but highly encourages the use of face masks and recommends to consult a doctor or nearest health center should there be any symptoms or not feeling well. (AGP/AAL/PIA Capiz with reports from DOH)
